June 17, 2005
Gov. Tom Vilsack said Friday he soon will sign an executive order restoring voting rights to convicted felons who have served their sentence."This action we take is not going to be a pardon," Vilsack said.
The governor said only five other states prohibit felons from voting after completing their sentences.
"We're here today to talk about justice," Vilsack aid. "When you've paid your debt to society, you need to be reconnected to society.
Vilsack said about 600 felons last year had voting rights restored, but he said it's a painstaking and time-consuming process that distracts the state's parole board and investigators.
Vilsack said he will sign the measure on July 4 with the symbolism of Independence Day.
Vilsack notes that his action will not restore other civil rights, such as the right to keep and bear arms. I guess he believes that these folks are responsible enough to direct the fate of the country, but not to carry the means of self-defense like a free man.
Stroke of the pen -- law of the land. Kinda disgusting.
Posted by: Greg at
04:18 PM
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